PATTAYA, Thailand – The Department of Fisheries announced the annual closure of the inner Gulf of Thailand, covering eight provinces, to restore aquatic resources during the spawning and juvenile growth season. The 2026 conservation measures will be implemented in two phases. The first phase runs from June 15 to August 15, 2026, covering the western zone of the inner Gulf. It includes parts of the provinces of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phetchaburi, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon. The restricted zone extends from Hua Hin District in Prachuap Khiri Khan to Mueang District in Samut Sakhon, covering about 2,350 square kilometers.
The second phase takes place from August 1 to September 30, 2026, targeting the northern zone of the inner Gulf. It covers parts of Samut Sakhon, Bangkok, Samut Prakan, Chachoengsao, and Chonburi provinces. The zone begins in Mueang District, Samut Sakhon, and ends in Si Racha District, Chonburi, covering about 1,650 square kilometers. Department of Fisheries Director-General Thitiporn Laoprasert stated that this spatial management strategy is a vital, ongoing annual mission. Its primary goal is to safeguard aquatic species during reproductive cycles, allowing stocks to replenish and maintain ecological balance. The department requests full cooperation from commercial and local fishermen in strictly following these regulations to foster the long-term sustainability and abundance of marine resources. (NNT)
